Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition and awards program that connects and enriches communities in Australia and New Zealand. The program discovers and celebrates individuals who make a positive impact to their local community and/or environment.

For further information on the Westfield Local Heroes program, click here.

Bec Picone

Peace of Mind Foundation
__Driven . Dedicated . Unstoppable __

Rebecca Picone is always on call to support people with brain cancer. The busy single mum created the Peace of Mind Foundation to support others after her sister-in-law died from the disease. The foundation runs a support group, annual retreats and provides financial and in-home support to patients. Bec is available 24/7 to offer support and has raised $682,000 through fundraising and grants. “I founded Peace of Mind in order to provide much needed and difficult-to-find support and care for patients and families fighting brain cancer,” says Bec.

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Michael Nolan

Lazarus Community Centre
__Committed . Generous . Humble __

Michael Nolan is passionate about providing support for homeless people. The former priest worked tirelessly to establish the Lazarus Community Centre 18 months ago, to provide a safe and welcoming place for the most vulnerable and needy in Geelong. It’s a place where those living rough can get a daily meal, shower, clean their clothes and watch TV or play pool. “Based on our first year of operation, this service has assisted well over 2,000 people to better cope with daily living. Over 4,500 meals have been provided,” says Michael.

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Tessa Davis

Anam Cara House
__Compassionate . Caring . Giving __

Tessa Davis is known for her big heart when it comes to people with life-limiting illnesses and runs the day hospice program at Anam Cara House. The service gives carers a well-earned break for a few hours while Tessa and trained volunteers keep a caring eye on their loved ones, who are treated as guests and encouraged to engage socially with other people in a similar situation. Tessa is on standby in case of a medical need and the hospice aims to have one volunteer to each guest so that the care is individualised.

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Recognising all our 2019 nominees

We congratulate all of our finalists and nominees and recognise the important contribution they make to the local community.
View all of the finalists, nominees and their organisations

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